Jennifer Anderson
5/5
I really think that this is my new favorite party boat. Everything about the trip was great, from start to finish. I want to take more trips on the Blackhawk II.
I took a porgy (scup) trip. I usually fish close to home, but the boat I usually fish on is down for now, so I snagged a ticket online, which was a very easy process. the website is really easy to get tickets on. Their Facebook page is often updated with fishing reports, photos, and short videos. Check the fish report on Facebook!
The directions on the website said to put Cini Park into the GPS. That was PERFECT!!! I got there with no trouble, no confusion, and plenty of time to spare. There was plenty of parking. Even better, there were EXTREMENLY CLEAN public restrooms with warm running water, hand dryers, and flush toilets. Ice was available for purchase at the dock, $3.00 per bag. I recommend taking enough for your cooler. For me, that was 3 bags.
I got a ticket for Memorial Day 2023. Holiday weekends are generally the absolute WORST for fishing, as everyone with a boat and an outboard motor crowds the best fishing spots. Fishing can be tough on holidays. I wasn't expecting to catch my limit, as I don't know the New York Waters we fished in, I'm used to Cape Cod.
I unloaded my gear at the parking lot and proceeded to the ticket shed. My reservation was there waiting, and I was asked if I wanted to join the pool for the biggest fish for an additional $5.00 (YES!!! Don't threaten me with a good time and friendly competition!!) I did not rent a rod as I took my favorite spinning rod, but the rental rods I saw were of good quality and well kept.
We got a very enthusiastic briefing before we even boarded the boat. Basic fishing tips were shared and beginner instructions given. Boarding the boat was easy and comfortable. I was fighting a bad back and wasn't able to move as well as I usually can, but there were mates at either side of the entry helping transfer gear and helping us get settled. I found a spot near the starboard bow and tied my rig. Upon asking the mates questions on hook size and sinker weight, I realized I didn't have the proper stuff, but they loaned me a bank sinker and I was able to purchase 3 pre-tied rigs. I bought a few extra sinkers, just in case.
It was an hour run to the porgy cove. I had plenty of time to tie rigs, eat breakfast, and chat with others. The mates were excellent as they came around, tied rigs, and answered questions. They kept safety as the utmost importance. That made me feel very comfortable. While on the way to the porgy grounds, the mates came around with the deck hose to add salt water to our coolers to make ice slurry that would keep our fish fresh and cold. Other boats I've been on don't do this.
Bait was passed out and we fished. I probably missed more fish than I caught. I was fishing next to a very kind, experienced gentleman (THANK YOU JOHN) that caught his limit and shared fish with me and others. I shared tips and fishing stories with others while helping them bait hooks, land fish, and help untangle. The mates checked on us often, and were only a shout away if anyone needed help.
We couldn't have had a better day or a better crew. The weather was perfect and the water was like glass. Mates were always there to help, whether it was to untangle a mess or get a net for a large weakfish. They were positive and high energy the whole trip. I really can't say enough about how amazing they were. At the end of the trip, the mates filleted the catch expertly for a low fee. PLEASE TIP THE MATES!!!!
Upon returning to the docks, we were given the chance to buy more ice. That is something that I don't see happen on other boats, and I really appreciated that. THANK YOU!
TL;DR: Go on this boat. You'll have fun, you'll learn things. You'll go home with fish. It's a really good time!
Bring snacks/sandwiches, bring and wear sunscreen, dress in layers, and be ready to have fun!
Thank You Blackhawk II and mates, I will be back!!!
